1.      The early bird catches the worm

Start your search for the perfect dress around 8 to 10 months before the wedding. It takes a while to determine what style of dress suits your body. After you decided on a dress it will take about 2 months to order or make the dress. Give yourself enough time. This will avoid you feeling rushed and make a quick decision that you may regret later.

2.      Have a clear picture in your head.

Are you interested in a classic, elegant, romantic or glamorous dress? Well, I suggest you should only try on dresses that suit your specific vision. It’s a process of elimination. There are thousands of choices out there. Have your vision in mind every step of the way, don’t get lost in the cloud of lace, sequins and mesh.

3.      Shop solo before you call in the troops

Consider shopping solo to first form your own opinions on what you like before you call in the supportive entourage.

It is your day and you should decide exactly what you want. Don’t let a mother or friend push you to try on some dress you really don’t like. After your narrowed down your search to 3 or 4 options, take them with to help you decide choosing the perfect dress.

4.      Trust Your Instincts

If you have to be reassured that the dress looks great on you, it's probably not “the one.”  You, better than anyone, know what style you’re looking for and what features you want to highlight. Be vocal about your vision, your favorite assets and your trouble spots when consulting with the designer or shop assistant. When it’s the right one, you’ll know -- you probably won’t want to put on anything else. Have some tissues handy, since it’s probably going to be an emotional moment!

5.      Take your accessories with.

Make sure take some decent shoes with. Its odd trying on dresses with flip flops or winter boots.  Remember to wear a strapless bra and take an ‘undergarment’ with should you plan on wearing one on your wedding day. Once you have decided on your perfect dress, schedule a fitting to try on your dress with different accessories. Long or short earings? Braclet or necklace? Decide on the final touches and have fun playing around with different ideas. 

6.      Buy a Dress That Fits Now

Even if you are planning on losing some weight, your body type isn’t going to completely change. It is possible to make a dress small and shorter not bigger and longer. Don’t put more pressure on yourself by buying a dress you will never fit into. Be kind and reasonable to your body.

7.      Colours and shades.

Be open minded when trying on dresses. Don’t automatically request a white dress. In my experience Ivory work better with light skin tones and white or off white with darker skin tones. Try on a variety of shades to determine which colour lift you up and works best for you.

8.      Be practical

Your dress needs to suit the vibe of your wedding. Don’t choose a ball gown for the beach or a long train for an outdoor wedding. You will need to walk, sit, dance and enjoy the day without being restricted by your dress.

Make sure you can climb a flight of stairs and make a 360 degree turn in your dress. Very important, don’t wear high heels on the most important day of your life if you can’t walk in them! Make sure you are comfortable and confident.

9.      Do your homework.

Make sure you know exactly what dresses are available for fitting. Every Wedding Dress Boutique has a fitting fee and you have to book an appointment in advance. Find out how long the consultation is, if they have an alteration service ext. It will save you a lot of time and money.

10.      First budget, then shop.

Trust me, its better to shop around in your budget than wasting time trying on dresses you can’t afford. You will save yourself a lot of heartache and tears. Don’t be fooled by the price tag, the most expensive dresses are not always the most beautiful dresses.

Also, remember that you have to include the following in your Wedding Dress budget: alterations, veil, headpiece, shoes, lingerie and wedding jewelry.

All dresses are available at Crystals and Creme Wedding Dress Boutique. 
Visit www.crystalsandcreme.com 
[email protected]

Congratulations to Danusia and Sean who tied the knot the 4th of August. We wish you all the joy and happiness in the world! Danusia, you looked amazing in your Crystals & Crème Wedding Gown!!

Life is not measured by the amount of breathes we take... but by the moments that take our breath away!

The greatest thing you'll ever learn is to love and be loved in return. -Natalie Cole

Photographer: Christine W Photography (http://www.christinewphotography.com)